Controversial tamarisk trees being removed

The city of Palm Springs started removing the tamarisk trees along the Tahquitz Creek golf course Tuesday afternoon.

The trees have an interesting history, some have labeled them “racist trees.” It is believed the trees were planted there, years ago, to block out views of the golf course from a historically black neighborhood next door.

But Palm Springs Mayor Robert Moon said that’s not the case.

“We actually have photos of Mr. Crossly built the first home here. These trees were already here 60 years ago when that happened,” Moon said.

The city worked with neighbors to remove these trees. They said 3 out of 19 residents voted to keep the trees.

“However, as we move down the line and they change their mind we’ll do it but if we get past their property its done,” said

The sound of crunching is music to Max’s ears. He lives along this line of trees and said they have always been a nuisance.

“They’re also a fire hazard. They just dump dry needles in my yard all the time and I’m constantly having to clean them up,” Max said.

It’s not an easy process with thick trunks and deep roots crews say it will take about a month to remove all of them.

“This is a lot of work, we have 50 years of growth on these tamarisk trees and we need to remove root systems to make sure they’re really gone,” Escamilla said.

But once they’re gone homeowners will finally be able to enjoy the beautiful view.